Alzheimer's Australia NSW

Dementia is a brain condition. It’s not a normal part of ageing. Learn more about what dementia is, its symptoms, diagnosis, treatment and support.

Key points

• Dementia is a brain condition. It’s not a normal part of ageing.
• The effects of dementia vary, but generally, dementia affects your mood, memory, thinking and behaviour.
• Dementia can happen to anybody, but it is much more common after the age of 65.
• There’s currently no known cure for dementia, but there are treatments for many of the symptoms, and support is available.

Dementia Australia is the national peak body supporting people living with dementia, their families and carers.

More than 421,000 Australians live with dementia, and more than 1.6 million people are involved in their care. Dementia is the second leading cause of death in Australia and will likely soon become the first, yet it remains a challenging and often misunderstood condition.

Dementia Australia responds to this challenge with trusted information, education and support services.

• We advocate to government and in the community for positive change.
• We support vital research and health workers providing essential care.
• We equip communities with tools and knowledge to make our society more dementia friendly.
• We involve people impacted by dementia in our work, to respect and reflect the diverse range of dementia experiences across Australia.
• We amplify the voices of people impacted by dementia, to empower their self-advocacy and reduce stigma in the community.
• We are here to support people impacted by dementia, and to enable them to live as well as possible.
• No matter who you are or how you’re affected by dementia, Dementia Australia is here for you.

Our vision

An inclusive future where all people impacted by dementia receive the care and support they choose.

Our purpose

To transform the experience of people impacted by dementia by elevating their voices and inspiring excellence in support and care, free from discrimination.

Our values

Diversity and Equality
Respect and Inclusiveness
Integrity and Accountability